Top UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has made it clear that he intends to secure a knockout win over Islam Makhachev should they ever meet again in the octagon.
Their first encounter was Tsarukyan’s UFC debut in 2019, where he lost a three-round decision to Makhachev. A rematch was scheduled for UFC 311 last year for the lightweight title, but Tsarukyan had to withdraw due to a hernia at the last minute. Renato Moicano stepped in as a replacement but was quickly submitted by Makhachev in the first round.
After successfully defending his lightweight belt four times, Makhachev recently vacated the title. He moved up a weight class to welterweight, capturing the strap at UFC 322 by defeating Jack Della Maddalena.
Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan faced Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar later the same year, achieving a second-round submission victory.
Makhachev is expected to make his first defense of the 170-pound welterweight title in August. Tsarukyan also has an opponent and a fight date confirmed, according to his coach, with an official announcement anticipated soon.
Arman Tsarukyan Promises to KO Islam Makhachev
Despite a potential rematch not being on the immediate horizon, Arman Tsarukyan recently reiterated his goal to knock out Makhachev. In a recent interview with M Hassan Yosufi, “Ahalkalakets” acknowledged Makhachev as the toughest opponent he has ever faced, praising the pound-for-pound king’s exceptional skill set. Tsarukyan then boldly stated: “I’ll just knock him [Islam Makhachev] out next time.”
He attributed his initial loss to Islam’s superior skills, showing respect while firmly setting his future intentions.